Monday, August 16, 2004

We've always had the utmost respect for the dedication it takes to attend the Berklee College of Music, mainly because we lack the kind of talent it takes to walk through the door. We can pound out a simple rhythm on drums and bass, and dogs don't howl when we sing, but our musical aptitude ends there. We occasionally head down to Boylston and Mass. Ave to soak in the atmosphere of Berklee, and, truth be told, to stop into some of the excellent restaurants near there. This week, however, the music is the only draw, as the school conducts its annual Summer Guitar Sessions. Civilians can't stroll into the classes and clinics but the nightly concerts at the Berklee Performance Center are open to the public. Tonight's show is a gem: jazz-rock fusion guitarist Vernon Reid, whom most folks know from Living Colour. Opening the show will be Dave Fiuczynski, a Berklee associate professor whose band, the Screaming Headless Torsos, kicks major derriere. Show at 7. Tickets $5, $2 for seniors. 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-747-2261.